Alexander Technique Bibliography

The researchers looked at 237 article citations and selected 12 high-quality studies to analyze in detail. They concluded that:

Evidence from RCTs and CTs suggests that AT sessions may improve performance anxiety in musicians. Effects on music performance, respiratory function and posture yet remain inconclusive. Future trials with well-established study designs are warranted to further and more reliably explore the potential of AT in the interest of musicians.

In this study, 579 patients were divided into 8 treatment groups: a control (normal care), 6 massage sessions, 6 massage sessions followed by exercise prescription and counseling, 6 Alexander lessons, 6 Alexander lessons followed by exercise and counseling, and 24 Alexander lessons with exercise and counseling starting at 6 weeks. They were subsequently tested for pain and discomfort at different intervals of time. Researchers concluded that:

A series of 24 lessons in the Alexander technique taught by registered teachers provides long-term benefits for patients with chronic or recurrent low back pain. Both six lessons in the Alexander technique and general practitioner prescription for aerobic exercise with structured behavioural counselling by a practice nurse were helpful in the long term; classic massage provided short term benefit. Six lessons in the Alexander technique followed by exercise prescription was almost as effective as 24 lessons.

Woodman, J.P. and Moore, N.R. (2012). Evidence for the effectiveness of Alexander Technique lessons in medical and health-related conditions: a systematic review. International Journal of Clinical Practice 66, 1, 98–112.

The authors reviewed 271 publications on the Alexander Technique, either in a private or group setting. Using rigorous criteria for the quality of the studies, they selected 18 to analyze. Their conclusion:

Strong evidence exists for the effectiveness of Alexander Technique lessons for chronic back pain and moderate evidence in Parkinson’s-associated disability. Preliminary evidence suggests that Alexander Technique lessons may lead to improvements in balance skills in the elderly, in general chronic pain, posture, respiratory function and stuttering, but there is insufficient evidence to support recommendations in these areas.